The official sports predictions blog of Joshua Huffman, freelance writer who is publisher of the "NFL Predictions against the Spread" series. Blog specializes in NFL predictions from myself and links to other writers' predictions. Occasionally will do predictions for other sports. Check left side bar for more categorized blogs.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

JZN NFL Predictions vs. Spread: Other Games (Week 9, 2011-12)

Here are my predictions for the other four games for Week 9 of the 2011-12 NFL season.

*** Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers ***

I just can't see the Pittsburgh Steelers getting swept by the Baltimore Ravens. The Steelers have played much better at home than on the road this season. The one concern that I do have is with the injuries to their linebackers and how their offensive line will hold up against the Baltimore Ravens' front seven.

This will be the first time that the Ravens have been underdogs this season. The Steelers are 3-1 ATS at home while the Ravens are 1-2 ATS on the road. The Steelers are undefeated at home when spreads aren't considered.

Final Predictions:

Against the Spread: Pittsburgh Steelers (-3)

Straight: Pittsburgh Steelers 20, Baltimore Ravens 17

*** Atlanta Falcons at Indianapolis Colts***

My biggest concern would be that the Falcons could have a difficult time containing Dwight Freeney and/or Robert Mathis. Still, I've watched the Colts for the past two weeks and their hapless. Either go with the Falcons or don't bet this game. Don't forget that they've had two weeks of rest and preparation. Michael Turner vs. that soft run defense in Indianapolis? Yikes.

There is one thing worth noting: The NFC South is 4-10 ATS on the road.

Final Predictions:

Against the Spread: Atlanta Falcons (-7)

Straight: Atlanta Falcons 31, Indianapolis Colts 17

*** Cleveland Browns at Houston Texans ***

Second consecutive road game for the Browns. They've only exceeded 17 points once this season (against the Indianapolis Colts). However, they do have a stingy defense that regularly holds opponents to 20 points or fewer. Texans win but I'd take the points.

Final Predictions:

Against the Spread: Cleveland Browns (+11)

Straight: Houston Texans 21, Cleveland Browns 13

*** Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys ***

The Cowboys have already beaten the St. Louis Rams and San Francisco 49ers. However, the Seahawks upset the New York Giants in New York a few weeks ago.

The Seahawks are a poor road team and they have a slew of injuries that have held them back. I just think that the Cowboys have far too much talent and home-field advantage. They'll be eager to bounce back from that Sunday Night imbroglio.